
Member Reviews

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Colleen Cambridge for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder by Invitation Only coming out September 26, 2023. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is definitely what I wanted! The second book wasn’t my favorite, but I loved this one! It felt more like the first book in the series. Murder mystery parties set in glitzy old mansions sound so fun to me. There are definitely some similarities between this and Agatha Christie’s A Murder is Announced, but I really enjoyed that book, so I loved all of the similarities. The dialogue was fun and Phyllida is always good at solving the cases. Hope to see more books like this.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys 1930s murder mysteries!

Murder by Invitation Only is the third book in the Phyllida Bright Mystery series by Colleen Cambridge.
Phyllida is anxiously awaiting the arrival of a vacuum for Mallowan Hall. But first, an invitation arrives for a murder game that says, A Murder will Occur Tonight, Beecham House. The Christie’s are currently in London, so Phyllida phones them to inform them of the invitation. Agatha asks that Phyllida attend in her place, hoping that Phyllida might gather information that she might turn into a future book. Phyllida heads for Beecham Hall, and when the game begins, it turns from a game to an actual murder when the host, Clifton Wokesley, is found dead in his role as the corpse.
Due to a bad storm, Inspector Cork is late arriving at Beecham Hall, so Constable Greensticks begins the investigation, but soon, he seems happy for Phyllida to handle the inquiries. Phyllida will be busy as she soon discovers that everyone seems to be a suspect.
I love this series. It is well-written, plotted, and historically accurate. The cast of characters are all enjoyable and well-developed. The staff at Mallowan Hall are all delightful and provide humorous times. The household’s staff reaction to the new vacuum was quite funny and enjoyable. There were many twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end as to the identity of the murderer.
I’m looking forward to the next book in this wonderful series.

This was my first book in this series and I really enjoyed it. I liked Phyllida's no nonsense attitude toward both investigating and her housekeeper duties. The setting was a lot of fun (I am really loving historical mysteries) and the characters were vivid and helped really set the scene well. I love a locked room type mystery and all the nods to Agatha Christie's works, without making you feel confused if you hadn't read them. AC is only nominally included on the periphery which I actually liked, so she wasn't the focus, though some readers might be expecting more. The only thing I did not like was Phyllida going into dangerous situations herself when the police are in the next room! Or at least take someone with you! I can't wait to continue this series.

MURDER BY INVITATION ONLY is the third book in the Phyllida Bright Mysteries by Colleen Cambridge. As a huge fan of the Queen of Mysteries, Agatha Christie, I couldn’t help but become enamored with Phyllida Bright, the housekeeper at Agatha’s Mallowan Hall estate. The author evokes the style of the golden age of mysteries and in this newest release, the “locked room” becomes the scene of the crime. Phyllida Bright is clever and holds her own in a male-dominated society. Since this is Phyllida’s point of view, Agatha Christie is rarely seen. But when she appears (or has phone conversations with her head housekeeper), she steals the scenes she inhabits with her dry humor and her mind racing on how to use Phyllida’s situations in her own writing.
Lest you think this series is strictly an homage to Dame Christie, rest assured Ms. Cambridge writes with a fresh voice and provides plenty of twists to a well-plotted murder mystery. The characters are well-developed and stay true to their historical time period. It’s obvious that the author has done her research and weaves it effortlessly into the storyline. While a sharp-eyed armchair detective might be able to suss out the clues alongside Phyllida, I was more than happy to sit back and enjoy this entertaining story without over-taxing my little gray cells. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see what’s next in store for Phyllida!

The next Phyllida Bright mystery finds her attending a mysterious murder mystery dinner. Things become real though when one of the hosts is actually murdered. With roads closed due to weather, Phyllida is determined to investigate before she is next.
Another great entry in this series! As a huge Agatha Christie fan, I love all the little nods to potential inspiration for the author. But even if you’re not familiar with her books, you can still enjoy these mysteries! Phyllida is a great protagonist and there is great character development. Can’t wait for the next one!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Dame Agatha must be away when the "murder game" hosted by the Wokesleys takes place so she sends her trusty house keeper Phyllida to the party hoping that, if nothing else, there might be inspiration for a new novel. Well, Phyllidia is shocked when the host, who is meant to play the dead body is, actually murdered! Turns out that there was more to the man than most knew and Phyllida wingles it out of the guests. She also builds a relationship with the housekeeper and the chauffeur. No spoilers but know that she makes good use of the Christie method. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Don't worry if you haven't read the earlier books- it's a classic cozy with good characters and a twisty enough plot.

This is a well plotted and well written series, Phyllida is a strong and clever MC and I like her.
This is another solid and twisty mystery that kept me guessing and turning pages.
The historical background is well researched and I thoroughly enjoyed it
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Special thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of Colleen Cambridge’s newest book, MURDER BY INVITATION ONLY, to read and review! It’s no secret one of my favorite genres is the mystery novel, and this one is my newest favorite. This book will publish just in time for cosy season!
Upon receiving an invitation to a murder game at Beecham House, the last thing Phyllida expects is an actual murder right before her eyes. Yet a murder occurs and in the absence of the Inspector, Phyllida takes charge. Will she be able to solve the crime before another one occurs??!
Phyllida Bright, Agatha Christie’s fictional crime fighting housekeeper, is back for a third installment! This book was one of my most anticipated for this year, and it did not disappoint! Phyllida (herself a little bit of a mystery) is such a fun protagonist and I really enjoyed her interactions with the rest of the characters in the novel. There were enough clues to keep me guessing and engaged, but not too many red herrings to make it seem ridiculous. It was just right and I enjoyed it immensely. Added bonus, while there are definitely references to the two previous novels (Murder at Mallowan Hall and A Trace of Poison), they are not a required read before this book. I’d recommend this book if you’re a fan of the Queen of Crime herself, but want a fictional take on her household staff.

"Murder by Invitation Only" is absolutely fantastic! This book is a source of immense enjoyment for various reasons, and without a doubt, it deserves a solid five-star rating in my book.
Let's start with Phyllida, the star of the show. She's just awesome! I loved her character. She's smart, witty, and totally relatable. Phyllida channels the vibes of classic amateur sleuths like Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot, which is a fantastic nod to Agatha Christie.
Speaking of Christie, I loved the shout-outs to "A Murder is Announced". It's like a cozy reunion with one of my all-time favorite mystery books.
Here's the cool part: I actually figured out whodunit halfway through the book. But guess what? The story kept me hooked! There were so many twists and turns that I was constantly second-guessing myself. It's like a rollercoaster of mystery that never loses its thrill.
Plus, it's super easy to dive into, making it a real page-turner. The pacing is spot-on, keeping you glued to the story.
I can't wait for the next book in the series!

For fans of Agatha Christie or puzzle mysteries, this book takes the reader back to days of red herrings and simpler times before crimes could be quickly solved with CSI teams.
This is the third book in the series by Colleen Cambridge who does homage to Christie by introducing Phyllida Bright, housekeeper to Agatha Christie, as the crime solver. With Murder Mystery Theatre being so popular today, what better way to introduce suspects and draw the reader in than with a mystery game at a neighbor's home. Guests at Beecham House get more than they bargained for when one of the game participants is murdered.
Thanks to Kensington Books and Net Galley for providing an ARC of this book. I look forward to reading the author's backlist as well as reading more books in this series.

When a game goes awry at a country estate, Phyllida Bright aims to outplay a cunning killer. Colleen Cambridge’s Murder by Invitation Only is exactly what you want in a historical mystery. Clever and delightful until the very last page.
Murder by Invitation Only finds Dame Agatha Christie’s fictional housekeeper, Phyllida Bright, eagerly awaiting the delivery of a vacuum for Mallowan Hall. Yet, instead of a new appliance, an invitation to attend a “murder game” arrives, hosted by the new occupants of Beecham House, the Wokesleys. Dame Agatha implores Phyllida to attend in her stead, hoping that Phyllida might gather inspiration for a new manuscript.
Reluctantly, Phyllida sets off for Beecham House, and what promises to be a fun night quickly turns deadly when host Clifton Wokesley is found murdered. The scene reminds Phyllida of Dame Agatha’s famous locked room mysteries, and she quickly takes it upon herself to narrow down a potential list of suspects. With Inspector Cork delayed and a town constable who’s more than willing to let Phyllida take the lead, Phyllida pounces on the chance to solve a perplexing whodunit.
As her surname suggests, Phyllida is a bright, capable amateur sleuth who deftly guides the reader through a twisting web of household intrigue. Colleen Cambridge’s writing style is effortlessly engaging, leaving just enough breadcrumbs for the reader to follow breathlessly as Phyllida races to unmask the killer. This was my first time meeting Phyllida, but it certainly won’t be the last. I loved my visit to Mallowan Hall and Beecham House, and I plan to return as soon as possible.
Murder by Invitation Only is a true love letter to the real Dame Agatha and her famous detective, Hercule Poirot. With a clever mystery, a gorgeous historical setting, and a standout cast of supporting characters—the chauffeur Bradford, in particular—this latest Phyllida Bright Mystery will captivate readers. My little grey cells are already itching for more of Cambridge’s work!

Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
This series just keeps getting better. Phyllida Bright is Agatha Christie’s crime solving housekeeper. There is some mystery in her past that is alluded to and an interesting developing relationship with Joshua Bradford, the chauffeur that runs through all the books so far.. Looking forward to learning.more.
This book focuses on a neighboring house party, in which a murder game for fun turns into a murder for real. I had guessed the murderer at about 20% through but that did not detract from the story of Mrs. Bright doing her investigation and being kidnapped and rescuing herself in true heroine fashion. A fun read.. Great character development and a storm that allows Mrs Bright to do her thing without interference from the police.

Murder by Invitation Only by Colleen Cambridge is the third book in Phyllida Bright Mystery series. This installment was just as suspenseful, if not more gripping, as the previous books in this series.
The main character, Phyllida Bright, is the sharp and stern Mallowan Hall housekeeper working for a Agatha Christie and her husband. This cozy mystery kicks off when Mrs. Mallowan receives an unexpected invitation to a murder mystery party hosted by their new neighbors at Beecham House. Unfortunately, Agatha and her husband cannot attend the party so Phyllida goes in their place to represent the household. The purpose of the party is to play a murder mystery game, where guests take on different roles and work together to solve a fictional murder. However, as the night progresses, the line between reality and fiction blurs when a real murder occurs, plunging Phyllida into a world the likes of Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple!
With many well-crafted characters, an atmospheric setting, and a well-planned mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end, this cozy mystery was extremely enjoyable!
A must read for cozy mystery as well as Agatha Christie fans. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.

Murder by Invitation Only is the third book in this delightful mystery series by Colleen Cambridge. I might like keeping house if I could be more like Phyllida Bright. She is more of an assistant, undercover sleuth, also at times standing in for her employer, Agatha Christie. That is exactly what she is does for in the start of this story, attending a murder mystery game at a new neighbor’s home in place of Ms. Christie. After helping the overwhelmed housekeeper, the game commences with guests playing suspects and the host playing the decreased. Unfortunately, by the end there is no more playing with the host truly dead. What a shocker for everyone except the true culprit. How true the invitation “A Murder will Occur,” can to be.
This series is truly getting better and better. Not based on any Agatha Christie books, it still refers every now and again to some of them. I do love a good Christie story and this is just as good. I am sure that she would have loved this original series wishing to know someone just like Phyllida Bright. Highly recommend Murder by Invitation Only to all mystery fans or someone who just enjoys a strong capable lead female character.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

4.5/5 stars
I love this series, and with this third installment Phyllida, housekeeper and friend to Dame Agatha Christie, finds herself at a Murder Game party filling in as her employer is unable to attend.
As the game becomes reality, she inserts herself into the investigation of what is an essentially “locked door” mystery as there are 5 “game” participants, household staff and party guests as the only suspects. As she unearths secret motives for each suspect, yet another body is discovered. Can she win the “game” before more mayhem ensues? This story includes an excellent and hair-raising confrontation/denouement between Phyllida and the culprit, and even though I had guessed that culprit fairly early on, it was still entertaining to watch as Phyllida worked her way through the clues.
Phyllida is ALWAYS a joy to read. She’s hilarious, a bit stuffy but also very keen and detail oriented. There are hints here that we may learn more about her mysterious past with the next outing being in London, and I’m all in for those discoveries.
Nicely done.
My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing the free early arc of Murder by Invitation Only for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

In true Agatha Christie style Colleen Cambridge provides a historical mystery that is thought provoking and
An invitation arrives at Mallowan Hall to attend a murder. Since Agatha is out of town, housekeeper and friend Phyllida Bright goes as her representative. The new neighbors would like to introduce themselves with a murder mystery game. Unfortunately, the game becomes reality when a real body is discovered.
With the inspector also out of town, Phyllida takes it upon herself to assist Constable Greenstick with the investigation. That means spending much time inside the neighbor’s house where the housekeeper is overwhelmed, the staff is lacking direction, and a murderer resides. Phyllida proceeds to oversee two households while attempting to catch a murderer.
Honestly, this is my first Phyllida Bright novel, and I just find her to be obnoxious. I appreciate confidence in a character, but she seems too much of a know-it-all. I’m introduced to Phyllida in a comedic scene involving two maids and some pails, then there’s the relationship, or lack thereof, with the butler. I began to see that there might be some pet peeves in this series. I was grateful to read that Inspector Cork wouldn’t be present, because I really can’t stand aggressive closed-minded police in these novels. It is a troupe that should be erased from history. However, that doesn’t seem to stop Phyllida from also being close-minded. Though, that may also be because she is so anti-dog that it made my teeth hurt.
While the murder announcement is similar to Agatha Christie’s the adaptation is purely Colleen’s. I thought it was well planned with plenty of suspects, red herrings, and a comprehensive solution. I did think the ending was drawn out a bit. Again, another pet peeve was written in.
Overall, I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.

Phyllida is a former Army nurse and friend/housekeeper of Agatha Christie, who keeps Agatha's country home running smoothly. Agatha is invited to a murder mystery party at a nearby house, but she is traveling and unable to attend. She sends Phyllida, who also assists the overwhelmed housekeeper there. But when the man acting the part of the victim is actually murdered, Phyllida takes charge of the investigation.
I'm a fan of Cambridge's writing style and her clever and imaginative historical mysteries, and love that this one features Agatha Christie. Agatha is a minor character in the stories, but several Christie easter eggs are sprinkled throughout for fans to enjoy along with the mystery.
This was a clever and solidly plotted mystery with lots of red herrings and plenty of suspects. And Phyllida is fun to sleuth along with. She's intelligent, capable, and resourceful, and I love her dialogue and interactions with other members of the household, especially the chauffeur. The world-building brings fun historical detail and transports you to a 1930s English country house. This series has quickly become one of my favorites! I've been thoroughly delighted with every installment, and I can't wait to see where the author takes Phyllida next. Mystery (and Christie) fans will want to add this to their Fall tbr--it makes for a charming and very cozy read!
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to review this ARC. I loved it!

"In this engaging historical mystery, Agatha Christie's ever-capable housekeeper, Phyllida Bright, not only keeps the celebrated author's English country home in tip-top shape, she excels as an amateur sleuth. But when a murder-themed game goes awry, can she outfox the guilty party?
"A murder will occur tonight at Beecham House..." Who could resist such a compelling invitation? Of course, the murder in question purports to be a party game, and Phyllida looks forward to using some of the deductive skills she has acquired thanks to her employer, Mrs. Agatha, who is unable to attend in person.
The hosts, Mr. and Mrs. Wokesley, are new to the area, and Phyllida gladly offers their own overwhelmed housekeeper some guidance while events get underway. Family friends have been enlisted to play the suspects, and Mr. Wokesley excels in his role of dead body. Unfortunately, when the game's solution is about to be unveiled, the participants discover that life has imitated art. Mr. Wokesley really is dead!
In the absence of Inspector Cork, Phyllida takes temporary charge of the investigation, guiding the local constable through interviews with the Murder Game actors. At first, there seems no motive to want Mr. Wokesley dead...but then Phyllida begins to connect each of the suspects with the roles they played and the motives assigned to them. It soon becomes clear that everyone had a reason to murder their host - both in the game and in real life. Before long, Phyllida is embroiled in a fiendishly puzzling case, with a killer who refuses to play by the rules..."
A must buy author doing a very Clue meets Agatha Christie mystery? Hells yes.

"It's quite taxing on the brain dealing with feuding maids, recalcitrant butlers, missing vacuum cleaners and murder."
So says Phyllida Bright, Housekeeper extraordinaire at Mallowan Hall, home of Agatha Christie. And, yes, murder is one of the things that's taxing her brain. With Mrs Christie. away in London, Phyllida is her standin at Beecham Hall where she'll attend a Murder Game. Just up her alley when the game proves to be real. Instead of a rubber knife in the back of the host it's a real one and he's really dead. In true Christie style the crime is a locked room mystery with a limited group of suspects, all of whom were invited to the Murder Game. With the Inspector away and only a bumbling constable clearly out of his depth, Phyllida steps up and sets about solving the crime and at the same time organizing the household.
This third in the series is a fun romp with lots of Christie characteristics. Characters are distinct - even their names. There's Trifle the butler and Miss Treacle , the inept housekeeper. Mrs. Bright is indeed, as one of the characters states, "one hell of a woman."
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced reade'rs copy.

When a real murder takes place during a Murder Game, Phyllida Bright is on the case! This series is so much fun. I love the humor and all the side characters, especially Bradford and his dog. Phyllida is a capable detective, and I enjoyed seeing her wade through all the red herrings to solve the crime. I'm looking forward to learning more of her backstory and seeing what trouble she gets into next. Recommended for fans of Agatha Christie or cozy mysteries.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for this ARC! Expected publication is September 26, 2023.